Two Brains One Aim by Eric Smiley

Riding well can feel like solving a puzzle. This book helps piece it all together, covering topics such as:

• How both humans and horses learn
• Building a partnership instead of a dictatorship
• Early training and skill development
• Decoding equestrian terminology
• Taking dressage beyond the arena
• Ground poles for riders of all levels
• Tips for jumping and cross-country
• Problem-solving, no matter where you ride
• Understanding competition psychology
• The dynamics of being coached and coaching others

“This book is aimed at riders, coaches, and anyone interested in learning more about how humans and horses interact. I have tried to harness my own experiences when I cover the three main disciplines—dressage, show jumping, and eventing—and how they relate to one another. I look at how those in a coaching position can guide riders to perform better by making their lives less complicated and more fulfilling, and I examine how riders can apply the same principles to training their horses and become self-sufficient.” -Eric Smiley

Additional Information

Format: Paperback

Page Count: 192

Illustrations: 77 color photographs & diagrams

ISBN: 9781570768927

About the Author

Eric Smiley is a former international event rider who represented Ireland at the European, World, and Olympic levels, earning team bronze medals twice. He started his equestrian journey in the Pony Club, later advancing through the army and at the renowned Talland Equestrian Centre in the UK, where he earned his British Horse Society Instructor's certificate. In 1995, he achieved the prestigious British Horse Society Fellowship, the highest teaching qualification in the field. Smiley served as the Team Coach for the Belgian Eventing team at the 2011 European Eventing Championships and the 2012 London Olympics. He also held the role of an FEI judge, regularly serving on Ground Juries. An accomplished author, Smiley has written Look…No Hands!, The Sport Horse Problem Solver, and Two Brains, One Aim. He now travels worldwide, helping both professional and amateur riders achieve their goals.